3-Day Budget Travel Guide to Muenster, Germany
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
Morning:
Start your day at Prinzipalmarkt, the heart of Muenster's old town. This historic street is lined with gabled houses, boutique shops, and cafes. Visit the St. Paulus Cathedral (St. Paulus Dom), an architectural masterpiece built between the 13th and 16th centuries. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.
For breakfast, head to Café Extrablatt (Salzstraße 23, 48143 Münster). They offer affordable German breakfast options like fresh bread, cheese, and coffee for around €5-€8.
Afternoon:
Walk to the Historic City Hall (Rathaus), where the Peace of Westphalia was signed. Nearby, explore the Lambertikirche, famous for its iron cages hanging from the tower, a reminder of the Anabaptist rebellion in the 16th century.
For lunch, try Bäckerei & Café Schubert (Krummer Timpen 3, 48143 Münster), a local bakery offering hearty sandwiches and pastries for under €6.
Evening:
Spend your evening strolling along the Aasee Lake, a peaceful spot perfect for relaxation. You can rent a pedal boat for €8/hour if you want to enjoy the water.
For dinner, visit Gasthaus Kleines Haus (Windthorststraße 25, 48143 Münster), a cozy restaurant serving traditional German dishes like schnitzel and potato salad for about €10-€12.
Accommodation:
Stay at Hostel Münster (Hammer Straße 167, 48153 Münster), a budget-friendly option with dorm beds starting at €20/night. Private rooms are available for around €40/night.
Day 2: Culture and Nature
Morning:
Begin your day at the Museum für Kunst und Kulturgeschichte (Domplatz 10, 48143 Münster). This museum showcases art and cultural artifacts spanning centuries. Entry costs €5 for adults.
Grab a quick and affordable breakfast at BackWerk (Ludgeristraße 103, 48143 Münster), a popular bakery chain offering rolls and coffee for under €4.
Afternoon:
Head to the Allwetterzoo Münster (Sentruper Str. 285, 48161 Münster), one of the most beautiful zoos in Germany. Tickets cost €12 for adults. Alternatively, you can skip this and save money by exploring the nearby Sentower Park, a free public park with walking trails and scenic views.
For lunch, enjoy a picnic at the park or grab a bite at Vapiano (Stubengasse 6, 48143 Münster), where pasta dishes start at €8.
Evening:
Visit the Promenade, a circular path around the old city that offers stunning views of Muenster's green spaces and historic buildings. It’s free and perfect for an evening walk.
Dine at Tandoori Nights (Breul 12, 48143 Münster), an Indian restaurant offering flavorful curries and naan for around €10-€15.
Accommodation:
Return to Hostel Münster for another night of affordable lodging.
Day 3: Cycling and Local Markets
Morning:
Rent a bike from Radstation Münster (Bahnhofplatz 1, 48143 Münster) for €8/day. Muenster is known as the City of Bicycles, and cycling is the best way to explore its surroundings.
Ride to the Mühlenhof Open-Air Museum (Westfalenstraße 400, 48163 Münster), which showcases rural life in Westphalia. Entry costs €6 for adults.
Stop for breakfast at Kaffee & Bar Lohmann (Schlossplatz 15, 48143 Münster), where coffee and croissants cost around €5.
Afternoon:
Explore the Weekly Market at Prinzipalmarkt, held every Wednesday and Saturday. Here, you can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and souvenirs at reasonable prices.
For lunch, sample local sausages and pretzels directly from the market stalls for under €5.
Evening:
End your trip with a relaxing evening at Freilichtbühne Münster (Hüfferstraße 27, 48149 Münster), an open-air theater hosting performances during summer months. Check their schedule online for free or low-cost events.
Have dinner at Goldener Karpfen (Rothenburg 15, 48143 Münster), a family-run restaurant offering hearty German meals for around €10-€15.
Accommodation:
Spend your final night at Hostel Münster.
Additional Expenses That Could Enhance Your Trip
- Zoo Ticket: €12 per adult.
- Bike Rental: €8 per day.
- Museum Entry: €5 per adult.
- Pedal Boat Rental: €8 per hour.
- Theater Performance: Prices vary depending on the event typically €5-€15.